Setting sail from the charming town of LaBelle, you'll embark on a picturesque journey along the Caloosahatchee River towards the tranquil community of Alva. This route offers a delightful combination of scenic views, safety, and points of interest, making it ideal for cruisers who enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly adventure.
Your journey begins at the LaBelle Public Wharf, a good launch point, known for its easy access and facilities. Before setting off, I recommend checking the local weather forecast and ensuring all safety equipment is on board. You won't want to miss having your trusty navigation tides and currents app; savvy navvy is an excellent choice, offering real-time insights for this waterway.
As you head east down the Caloosahatchee River, keep an eye on the river's current, which can be affected by water releases from Lake Okeechobee. Along this route, the river is well-marked with green and red buoys, making navigation relatively straightforward. Stick to the channel to avoid any shallow areas, particularly when passing near the drawbridge in LaBelle — a notable landmark that offers great photo opportunities.
Your first potential layover is the Ortona Lock area, approximately 13 miles from LaBelle. Locks are intriguing engineering feats, and the Ortona Lock is no exception. It's essential to radio ahead for passage times and follow all rules and regulations when transiting a lock, as even experienced boaters can find them challenging. Be prepared with fenders and crew members ready to handle lines.
Continuing onwards, you'll sweep through vast stretches of Florida's rural beauty, passing splendid views of native wildlife. This section of the river is calm and makes for an enjoyable cruise, with lots of opportunity for birdwatching and spotting the occasional alligator basking along the banks.
Not far from Alva, consider taking a detour into Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park. Although not a bay for shelter, it's a fantastic stop for a leg stretch. With hiking trails and opportunities for picnicking, it's a family-friendly excursion into nature.
As you approach the quaint area of Alva, caution is advised when navigating around the Alva Bridge — a narrow point requiring attentive operation. The Alva Boat Ramp near the bridge is a convenient spot to dock. If you're looking forward to a quiet stroll or picnic, the Alva Community Park offers a serene setting.
Always ensure you're adhering to local speed limits and no-wake zones to protect the river's ecosystem and nearby residential areas. Be mindful too of the depth soundings since some spots, particularly near bends, might be shallower than they appear on charts.
Appropriate for cruisers who enjoy rural scenery with some gentle navigation challenges, this trip blends the serenity of a river cruise with opportunities for local exploration. Prioritizing safety by keeping abreast of weather conditions and well-marked channels ensures a flawless journey, leaving you to focus on relaxation as you drift through Florida's beautiful heartland.